Imagine aviation security without X-rays, counter terrorism without communications - every aspect of the running of the UK is underpinned by research and so relies on the work of scientists, engineers and analysts.

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory aims to maximise the impact of Science and Technology on UK Defence and Security across Government.

As events like 9/11 and the London underground bombings highlight, security is an important aspect of our daily lives.

Achieving a high level of security and assurance in an environment in which the potential threats can evolve rapidly is an ongoing challenge – one which science and technology research plays a key role.

Some recent work conducted by Dstl has been in the world of Transport Security.

Using modeling and simulation techniques, Samantha Shaw explores developments in the field of transport security, including the potential to lift the current ban on the carriage of liquids through UK airports.